STYLING
This mock fashion advertising campaign for Balenciaga draws inspiration from their Fall/Winter 2011 and 2017 ad campaigns, as well as Irving Penn’s iconic portrait photography from the 1940s and 1950s. The campaign features a dynamic interpretation of the brand's storied visual language, aiming to capture the juxtaposition of minimal-maximalism, movement, and high fashion. The creative direction is inspired by the distinct elements from these past campaigns, combined with a spatial and visual setup that invokes the depth and dimensionality of Penn’s portraits.
BALENCIAGA MOCK ADVERTISEMENT
Balenciaga Fall/Winter 2011 and 2017 Campaigns:
The 2011 campaign captured raw emotion and simplicity, using stark backgrounds and minimalist styling. The 2017 campaign introduced a more playful, grid-like element with subtle, yet impactful use of props and abstract composition. Both campaigns emphasize the intersection of art and fashion, which influenced the overall aesthetic of this project.
Irving Penn’s Portraits:
Penn’s work in the 40s and 50s, especially his use of dynamic composition and angular settings, was a key influence in this campaign. His ability to balance negative space with the subject matter created a sense of intensity, a visual theme I carried forward in my design.
Concept & Set Design:
The ad features a set consisting of two temporary walls, with the left wall showcasing a grid-like print, inspired by the 2017 Balenciaga campaign, and the right wall featuring the brand logo, referencing the 2011 campaign. The two walls are angled at less than 90 degrees, which not only creates a sense of depth and perspective but also echoes the spatial arrangements in Irving Penn’s portrait work.
